Pasta salad is a classic for a reason – it's versatile, adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser! This pesto bowtie pasta salad takes the familiar favorite and elevates it with a vibrant pesto sauce, providing a delicious and healthy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful summer picnic. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy recipe that delivers big on taste and freshness.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound bowtie pasta
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup pine nuts (or walnuts for a cheaper alternative)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
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Make the pesto: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the pesto. Combine the basil leaves, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice in a food processor. Pulse until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency by adding more olive oil if it's too thick.
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Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pesto, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, and red onion (if using). Gently toss to coat everything evenly with the pesto.
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Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also ensures the pasta salad is well chilled and ready to enjoy. Before serving, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a few extra basil leaves for an elegant touch.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pesto Bowtie Pasta Salad:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of this salad relies heavily on the freshness of the basil and the quality of the olive oil. Invest in good ingredients for the best results.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for a good pasta salad. It should be cooked through but still have a slight bite to it.
- Adjust the pesto to your taste: If you prefer a milder pesto, reduce the amount of garlic. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add protein for a heartier meal: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added to make this a more substantial meal.
- Make it ahead: This pasta salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Variations:
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Substitute sun-dried tomatoes for the fresh cherry tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
- Artichoke hearts: Add marinated artichoke hearts for extra texture and flavor.
- Different cheeses: Feta cheese or goat cheese can be used instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used. Consult a nutrition calculator for personalized values.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 18-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This pesto bowtie pasta salad recipe is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion. The vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it visually appealing, while the combination of creamy pesto and al dente pasta provides a delightful texture and taste. Enjoy!